Asia Cup 2022: As players, we need to be as focused as any other game”, says Hardik Pandya

Dubai 28 August : India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has said that while a match against Pakistan is a unique game but his team will treat it as the other games of cricket.

Sundays Group A match will see the return of the "greatest rivalry" in the history of cricket, which will be played at the Dubai International StadiumIts also the first time that the two teams meet India and Pakistan after a clash in the mens T20 World Cup last year in the UAE in which Pakistan scored a stunning 10-wick victory against India in the Super 10 stage, their first win in the Mens World Cups "All ready and prepared.

Its a special match (against Pakistan) but as players, we need to be focused on it just like any other game, and concentrate on the things we can control," said Pandya in an interview prior to the game with broadcasters.Since his return to the India T20I team in June, Pandya has put impactful all-round contributions that have tilted games in Indias favor "Obviously I am very happy and calm in my head.

Its not been the case that I dont want to showcase what Ive got however, its about being in an enviable place and doing my best.Its never about proving something.

In most cases If I do that, it will benefit my team." said Pandya.

Pandya is participating in the Asia Cup match after being taken off the field in the 2018 edition.He was later removed of the tournament because of an injury to his lower back that was acute.

He said he was grateful to the teams management for creating an extremely relaxed atmosphere in the team "I have been in and out of the team, but to witness the respect and appreciation they have shown me is amazing.This will help me perform better.

Its the type of mental state we are in is a lot more comfortable." "They do not wish to be under the burden of representing India They want to be their individuality.

The management deserves credit for creating a team that is safer than any other team Ive had the pleasure of playing with in the past." nr/bs.